Over the past month, federal immigration enforcement has focused on the city of Minneapolis. Their presence and aggressive tactics have forced city leaders to navigate complex questions about authority, cooperation, and the role of local government.  

At the center of that conversation is the city’s community safety commissioner, Todd Barnette.

He oversees the Minneapolis Police Department along with the city’s fire department, 911 services, emergency management and neighborhood safety programs — with the goal of improving communication, accountability, equity, and service delivery.

MPR News host Angela Davis talks with Barnette about leadership, reform, and the path forward.

Guest:

• Todd Barnette is the community safety commissioner for the city of Minneapolis. Before his current role, he served 17 years as a judge in the Hennepin County District Court, including terms as presiding judge of drug court, presiding judge of the criminal division, and chief judge, where he was the first person of color to hold the position. He is also an adjunct faculty member and mentor at the University of St. Thomas Law School.

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Use the audio player above to listen to the full conversation.